When rinsing a regulator, what is the best practice?

When rinsing a regulator, the best practice is to leave it attached to the tank or have the dust cap in place. This approach is crucial for maintaining the regulator’s performance and ensuring the interior components remain dry and free from contaminants.

Leaving the regulator attached to the tank allows water to rinse over the outer components without flooding the internal mechanisms, which could lead to malfunction or corrosion if internal parts were exposed to water. The dust cap protects the first stage from any debris or contamination while rinsing, ensuring that no water enters the critical areas of the regulator where it could cause damage.

This method balances effective cleaning with safeguarding the regulator's integrity, making it the most reliable practice for divers to follow. Proper care and maintenance, particularly concerning the regulator, are vital in ensuring safety and reliability while diving.